Hankook, the big tiremaker, is trying out their concept for what an airless tire would be like. / Hankook (via USA TODAY)

Written by

Chris Woodyard

USA TODAY

For years now, automakers have tinkered with the notion of a tire that doesn't need air. Basically, most of the resulting designs look like a plastic version of the wheels in Flintstones cartoons.

Enter South Korea's Hankook, which is showing off its own design. This one has "organically connected" spokes and a spongy construction that allows it to flex for bumps.

Hankook says it is 95% recyclable, since it is made from plastic -- or, if you want to get technical, elasticated polyurethane synthetics. It would roll more easily, saving energy, and drivers would never have to worry about flats or low air.

Of course, we keep getting tantalized with these designs, but are yet to see an airless tire hit the road. Driverless cars are now on the horizon, so maybe the idea of airless tire isn't so farfetched either.